Inspiration: Tomoko Nakamichi’s Pattern Magic and Pattern Magic 2 illustrate brilliant case studies of ways to manipulate a basic bodice pattern to create shapes, structures or effects. Specifically, the “Like a Jungle” example in Pattern Magic 2, where she split the bodice into strips of overlapping fabric. This made me curious how this type of manipulation could be applied to various silhouettes in various forms? What it would look like with other textiles?

Process:

• Decide on basic silhouette and structure of garment
• Give it a shot. Used basic pattern, muslin and dye for initial case study. Learned importance of perfecting fit before adding manipulation. Gathering at neckline is a distraction from effect. Love the gradient of dip dye.
• Explore possible line/cut variations of where pattern will be deconstructed and reassembles
• Explore textile variations
• Explore twists, knots, braids

Execution:

• Rather than use above ill fitting pattern drape muslin to fit and construct basic dress consisting of two pieces (front and back)
• Decided on racerback with a slight dip in the rear hemline
• Finalized cut out and twist pattern
• Cut and reassemble muslin to verify fit adjustments before final fabric is cut
• Serge all edges and construct all top pieces as close to twist as possible
• Finish edges within the twist
• Construct bottom of dress
• Construct lining using original pattern and sew to inside to finish arm and neck seams
• Hem the bottom

Final:

Future Exploration:

• Ways to draw attention to the manipulation, like dye, varied textiles including options with distinct front/back
• Other manipulation that didn’t result in a flat (or near flat) outcome, maybe using draping, gathering or other addition of volume

For the invitations Maaren, another co-host, had found some fun paper that we wanted to use as the backing and somehow print the information on another sheet attached to the front. I designed a simple squirrel shape within a circle that could be cut out to showcase the pretty paper. I was also able to reuse this shape to cut wood medallions to decorate the seed pouches which could also be reused as necklaces or earrings. This was a really fun first experience with the laser, next time I will do something more thought provoking or worthy of such a valuable tool. Red = cut. Black = etch.

As part of the decorations I made table runners out of burlap that I folded long-ways, then rolled into cylinders before dip dying with olive green and brown. I used some of the extra burlap to make little pouches that were filled with wild flower seeds.

As we grow older the range of possibilities tends to diminish as society encourages specialization. Since college my perceived identity as a ‘software engineer’ produced some self-doubt about who I was, as this single label didn’t encapsulate my whole identity. Through ouroboros-like re-creation and renewal I explore and evolve my identity as an artist, caretaker, thinker and beyond.

But this is not a solitary undertaking. How can my quest encourage others to explore other facets of their early identity that may appear dormant? What dialog can occur between masters of various disciplines, when we begin to view our identity as a range rather than singular? And, most importantly, how can we encourage children to form a healthy, diverse identity, committed to exploring their full potential as they walk through the decisions of life.